Free drone classes

As part of Grossmont College's $6 million federal America’s Promise grant through the U.S. Department of Labor, the Division of Career/Technical Education and Workforce Development will once again offer free drone piloting classes starting in March.

The unmanned aerial systems (UAS) or drone technology program is comprised of two tracks: surveying and mapping, and cinematography. The program will first provide UAS Ground School and Federal Aviation Administration 107 certification classes that students take to become licensed commercial drone pilots. The FAA 107 certification school will provide students comprehensive classroom instruction to pass the FAA 107 written test which is administered free to students. Once students complete the ground school module and possess a drone pilot license, they can then go on to take UAS Surveying and Mapping or UAS Cinematography.

Pilots in the surveying and mapping course receive extensive flight time and by program completion, students will know how to do precision mapping missions and data collection for multiple industries and operations.

UAS cinematography covers both basic and advanced cinematography techniques with an emphasis in developing "lifestyle" shots. The theory and operations of both standard and advanced precision camera shots is combined with operational scenarios.

The UAS Surveying and Mapping track meets Monday and Wednesday from noon-4 p.m. or 4-8 p.m. March 4 to June 19. The UAS Cinematography track meets Tuesday and Thursdays from noon-4 or 4-8 p.m.